I just got these and am impressed with the detail and clarity of these speakers. I only wanted something simple, small, and cheap. I was looking at the swans but don't have the opportunity to listen to them here in hawaii. We are pretty limited to whats available here and on Oahu is where they'd most likely have more options for me to listen to. But back to the review. I am currently using my iBasso D10 as an amp for these and...lol some people might say Im crazy but it gives a nice sound. Straight from my Imac (older model) the sound card isn't the best so I figured i'd try out the D10 with the Sticks. Well...the sticks first hand are detailed and clear but when I use my D10 with these I can hear much more detail and the mids seem more laid back. I know, I know...the D10 is a headphone amp and yes I do use the D10 as well as the T3 as headphone amps but It made a big difference in the performance of the sticks II. I am currently still in the process of the burn-in but I am glad I got this! I understand there are other 2.1 monitors out there but I wasn't looking at spending 300 just for 2 satellites and than another 400 for a woofer. Granted they most likely sound better and can go louder than what I currently have but I am not going to be taking these to very loud volumes. I also can run this straight from the headphone jack from my iMac with no problems. I would recommend these to anybody who isn't a bass head ( I am one and want something that hits harder and larger speakers for louder volumes but, this will do for the time being.) But they are a good investment, especially if you are trying to save money. The build is unique in its own fashion (my girlfriend said it reminds her of a jelly fish, the shape of the woofer...lol) Over all I think the product is pretty awesome and will take care of this so it lasts long. =)